Dreaming of escaping into nature during your trip to Brésil? Hoping to discover an authentic, pristine destination where nature remains untouched? Then the region of Bonito is perfect for you! Considered the ecotourism capital of Brésil, this region located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul is home to countless waterfalls, sublime rivers—among the purest in the entire country—and verdant forests teeming with exceptional flora and fauna.

What to do and see in Bonito? What are the rules in place to preserve the environment? How, when, and for how long should you visit? Follow our guide...

Why Visit Bonito in Brésil?

A Pristine Paradise and Exceptional Biodiversity

Wondering if it's worth visiting Bonito during a trip to Brésil? If you love adventure in nature and off-the-beaten-path experiences, Bonito will undoubtedly dazzle you. Located within the Pantanal wetlands, Bonito boasts being situated in the world's largest and richest wetland zone.

Here you'll find numerous rivers and waterfalls with crystal-clear waters, along with lush vegetation home to an abundance of wildlife—capuchin monkeys, tropical birds like macaws and toucans, and iconic South American felids such as jaguars and caimans. Not to mention the countless creatures you'll discover while paddling through the rivers and waterways, making the region a mecca for river diving.

Good to know:

The Bonito region sits between the Pantanal and Iguazu National Park, two of Brésil's most iconic sites! It makes for an excellent stop on the way to discover these must-see destinations.

One of the World's Best Ecotourism Destinations

Due to its exceptional biodiversity, the Bonito region rivals the world's finest ecotourism destinations. The city is even the first ecotourism destination globally to achieve "Carbon Neutral" certification in 2023 from the Green Initiative. It has also received the international "Safe Travels" tourism safety label, created by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

Once little-known among travelers, the Bonito region has established itself as a major ecotourism destination since the late 1980s. The area boasts some of Brésil's finest tourism infrastructure. As for activities in the region, they all adhere to environmental preservation standards to ensure ethical and sustainable tourism.

What Makes Bonito an Ecotourism Destination?

Bonito is not merely an ecotourism destination because of its extraordinary biodiversity. Authorities have implemented numerous measures to guarantee the preservation of the region's ecosystems:

• Visitor numbers are limited at each attraction. Strict daily visitor quotas are enforced for most activities to minimize human impact;

• Most attractions must be accessed with an accredited local guide. Independent visits are not permitted to avoid harming fragile environments;

• Visitors are encouraged to follow marked trails to prevent damage to local flora and fauna;

• Travelers are prohibited from using sunscreen or chemical repellents in most of the region's waterways to prevent water pollution and protect aquatic biodiversity;

• Fishing and motorboats are forbidden throughout the region, as is leaving trash or collecting natural elements;

• Tourism infrastructure, including accommodations, must comply with sustainability standards (waste management, renewable energy, wastewater treatment, etc.);

• Tourism revenue is often reinvested in reforestation and wildlife protection projects;

• Note: Due to daily visitor limitations, it's recommended to plan your Bonito stay in advance and book all excursions ahead of time!

What to Do and See in Bonito?

Here are the main attractions and must-do activities to discover in the region:

Rio Formoso Ecological Park (Parque Ecológico Rio Formoso)

Located just 7 km from Bonito's center, Rio Formoso Ecological Park takes its name from the mighty Formoso River. This nature reserve is the ideal destination for adventure and family-friendly water activities such as:

• Snorkeling in the crystalline waters of the Formoso River;

• River tubing on large floats, including the Boia Cross course;

• Aquatic zip-lining circuit and jumping in the river;

• Kayaking and stand-up paddling on the Rio Formoso;

• Swimming and relaxation in designated areas like the Ilha do Padre leisure space;

• Suspended tree walkway trails;

• Guided hikes to discover local fauna and flora;

• Horseback riding through the park...

Rio da Prata Ecological Reserve (Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata)

The Rio da Prata ecological reserve, located about forty kilometers from Bonito, is known for its sublime natural springs with translucent waters and primary forest. Managed by a local family, the site offers numerous water and land-based activities.

The reserve is one of Brésil's best river diving and snorkeling destinations. You'll encounter around fifty species of Pantanal fish like piraputangas and dourados, along with numerous aquatic plants. A truly enchanted universe awaits visitors!

Beyond diving and snorkeling, the reserve boasts a magnificent forest: hiking trails wind through centuries-old trees and exotic plants like orchids and bromeliads, with abundant wildlife including coatis, capuchin monkeys, agoutis, and anteaters. It's also possible to go on bird-watching hikes to spot species like the Striped Hocatzin, the Laughing Falcon, or the Blue-crowned Motmot. Note that horseback rides are also available within the park.

Buraco das Araras

Buraco das Araras is a private reserve open to visitors, famous for hosting one of the world's largest sinkholes. Literally translated as "macaw holes," this geological formation measures approximately 100 m deep and 500 m in circumference.

The site is celebrated for harboring around 120 red macaws during breeding season. It's estimated to be home to one of the world's largest concentrations of green-winged macaws (also called red-and-green macaws)!

Beyond its famous colorful parrots, the site is home to over 160 bird species including the Masked Tityra, Collared Carnifex, Pale-headed Woodpecker, Hoatzin, Alipiopsitta xanthops, and many more. A lake at the depression's bottom also provides refuge for caimans and numerous fish species.

To discover these natural wonders, visitors follow a trail and stop at various platforms around the crater. Many informational signs provide insight into the local fauna.

Boca da Onca Waterfall (Cachoeira Boca da Onca)

About 59 km from Bonito stands the highest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul state: Boca da Onca Waterfall. At 156 m tall, this natural wonder is discovered after hiking a 4 km trail that reveals 11 waterfalls before reaching the famous cascade. Natural pools along the route offer refreshment throughout the journey.

The site's unique feature? It hosts the country's highest rappelling descent! After climbing 880 steps from the waterfall's base, you'll find a platform offering a 90 m high rappelling descent—perfect for thrill-seekers!

Blue Lake Cave (Gruta do Lago Azul)

Located about twenty kilometers from Bonito, Gruta do Lago Azul is among the must-see natural jewels to discover. Indeed, this cave, considered one of the planet's most important flooded caves, is filled with treasures.

You'll find numerous geological wonders such as stalactite and stalagmite columns suspended from the ceiling. Deep within the cave lies a 90 m deep lake whose intense blue color creates an almost magical, surreal atmosphere. The water's tones shift with sunlight, offering a unique spectacle to visitors.

But there's more! This mysterious place gained worldwide fame following the discovery of prehistoric animal fossils at the lake's bottom. Researchers found fossils of saber-toothed tigers and giant sloths that inhabited the region over 12,000 years ago!

Note that swimming is prohibited, as is diving, which is reserved for scientists to preserve the ecosystem.

Sucuri River (Rio Sucuri)

Located on the lands of Fazenda São Geraldo, just 19 km from downtown Bonito, the Sucuri River is a tributary of the Paraná River. With water of intense blue that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding lush vegetation, it ranks among the world's most beautiful rivers!

Why? Simply because it's one of the world's purest and most translucent rivers. Its exceptional clarity results from the high concentration of calcium carbonate and calcified snail shells present on its riverbed.

The Sucuri River offers an extraordinary floating experience. Equipped with masks and snorkels, visitors complete a 1.5 km course to admire the many creatures inhabiting the waters—matogrosso, corimbas, dorado, pacu, piraputanga, and pintado—along with aquatic vegetation.

Note that it's also possible to discover the site on foot, horseback, or by bike to observe terrestrial fauna. You may spot monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and numerous birds like toucans and macaws.

Anhumas Abyss (Abismo Anhumas)

Located 23 km from Bonito's center, Anhumas Abyss ranks among the region's most beautiful landscapes. It's a submerged cave fed by an underground lake with surface area comparable to a football field. From above, you'd never expect such vastness...

To access it, visitors use electric rappelling devices to safely descend 72 m to the lake. Once down, a professional guide awaits for a boat tour showcasing rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. At the lake's bottom, which averages 80 m deep, you can see impressive limestone cones reaching 20 m high!

The visit continues with a snorkeling session. Dressed in wetsuits with masks and snorkels, travelers explore these treasures. The visibility—up to 60 m—creates sensations comparable to levitation!

To see geological formations up close and experience the unforgettable, you can also book a scuba diving session. Diving in Anhumas Abyss is accessible to all, even beginning divers!

Mysterious Lagoon (Lagoa Misteriosa)

Located 30 kilometers south of Bonito, Lagoa Misteriosa (translated as "mysterious lagoon") ranks among Brésil's deepest flooded caves. It owes its name to the fact that its exact depth remains unknown. Indeed, an expert diver recorded a depth of 220 m but found no bottom.

Beyond its depth, this lagoon is notable for its ultra-transparent water—visibility reaches 40 m below the surface. This clarity stems from limestone rocks that sediment out impurities.

Due to its exceptional transparency, Lagoa Misteriosa ranks among the country's best freshwater diving sites. The site offers multiple experiences to contemplate the immensity of its abysses. You can choose a floating outing (life vest, mask, and snorkel) or a scuba diving session (beginner or advanced).

Access involves following a short forest trail to reach this 75 m deep chasm below ground. Entry is then via 185 stairs.

Rio do Peixe Waterfalls (Cachoeiras do Rio do Peixe)

The Rio do Peixe waterfall circuit is located at Fazenda Água Viva, about 35 km from Bonito. As its name suggests, the site is known for its numerous waterfalls. The visit unfolds in two parts:

The first takes travelers on a 2 km trail between the Rio Olarias and Rio Peixe banks, where several waterfalls and natural pools allow for refreshment and swimming among fish like pirapitungas. For the more daring, trampolines fixed to the shore enable jumping into the river, plus a diving platform at Poção waterfall level.

After enjoying lunch at the farm featuring regional culinary specialties, the second visit section continues along an 800 m route where additional waterfalls await travelers.

Beyond enjoying fun and play in the waterfalls, the forest shelters numerous animal species like monkeys, tapirs, and macaws. You understand—it's the ideal spot for family fun during a Bonito trip with children.

Practical Information

When to Visit Bonito?

Bonito can be visited year-round. The humid season, from December through March, is best if you want to see nature in all its splendor. During this time, waterfalls flow impressively, flowers are abundant, and wildlife is birthing.

Conversely, it's not ideal if you seek the rivers and lagoons' translucence. Rain can cause mudflows, hindering hiking trails and muddying water clarity. Also, if you plan to dive or snorkel in Bonito's rivers and sinkholes, schedule your visit during the dry season, between April and October.

Remember to reserve excursions and activities in advance to ensure you don't miss anything!

How to Get to Bonito?

The easiest way to reach Bonito is to get to Campo Grande the capital and largest city in Mato Grosso do Sul state, where you'll find the nearest airport. From there, you have options:

• Fly from Campo Grande International Airport to Aeroporto Regional de Bonito. Note that São Paulo and Campinas airports also offer one direct weekly flight to Bonito;

• Take a bus from Campo Grande: approximately 4 hours of travel;

• Rent a private car or hire a private driver: 4 hours between Campo Grande and Bonito.

How Many Days for a Bonito Stay?

If time is limited, you can opt for a 3 to 4-day stay to see the region's emblematic sites. Have more time? Then a week won't be excessive to explore all of Bonito's wonders!

Need help planning your Bonito stay and scheduling all your activities and excursions? Don't hesitate to contact us to create a custom trip based on your desires and budget!